Wheeling Symphony Orchestra announces the first concert of the 2017-2018 season, Blockbuster Broadway, conducted by Music Director André Raphel. The performance will be held this Thursday, September 21, 2017 at 7:30 pm at the Capitol Theatre in Wheeling, WV.

The evening will feature timeless showstoppers from Broadway’s smash hit catalogue, including selections from The Phantom of the Opera, Annie, Jersey Boys, The Sound of Music, Chicago, Cats, A Chorus Line. “Opening Night of the Wheeling Symphony season will be special with a focus on Broadway music and the orchestra’s history,” says Music Director André Raphel. “This season’s opening Pops concert celebrating 88 years is significant for the start of the fall Arts season. Blockbuster Broadway’s vocalists singing great songs from Cabaret, Wicked, The Lion King, Mamma Mia! and other great shows will make for an exciting evening.”

Joining André Raphel and the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra on stage include Scott Coulter (vocalist/host), one of New York City’s most honored vocalists, winning multiple awards for his cabaret acts and his performances with symphonies around the country. Jessica Hendy (vocalist) is widely recognized as Broadway’s best belters with numerous Broadway credits including roles in Cats and Elton John’s Aida. Kelli Rabke (vocalist) was seen on Broadway as Narrator in the Broadway revival of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Her countless other roles include the role of Eponine in Les Miserables and the recurring role of Bernadette on The Young and the Restless. John Boswell (vocalist/pianist) has served as musical director for Judy Collins, Andy Williams and Bob Newhart and numerous concerts tours around the country.

Prior to the concert, patrons can purchase a pre-show, prix fixe dinner, catered by Rocco Basil in the Capitol Theatre Ballroom. Immediately following the performance, attendees can attend a free wine and cheese post-show reception with Maestro Raphel and other members of the symphony orchestra.

Patrons 18 or younger can get tickets for $7.50. Additional discounts are available for college students and groups of 10 or more. More information is available at wheelingsymphony.com.

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ABOUT THE SYMPHONY

For 87 seasons, the Wheeling Symphony has served “community residents by providing excellent orchestral programs that entertain, educate and enhance the quality of life.” As we enter into our 88th season, we are excited to continue this tradition and continue performing for the Ohio Valley community to showcase that MUSIC IS THE KEY.

The arts and music are very much a vital and necessary cornerstone to our region and we, at the symphony, know how important our work is. That’s why the 2017-2018 season features programs that will engage and galvanize audiences from Broadway smashes and Classic Rock trendsetters to Classical favorites and West Virginia premieres.